Heavy rains moving through New Orleans

Heavy rains bringing the possibility of flash flooding in many areas are moving through southeast Louisiana. The system is expected to linger most of the day, bringing rain, winds and advisories from the National Weather Service.

An area of low pressure over the western Gulf of Mexico is the culprit, drawing large amounts of moisture to fuel the downpour. A flash flood watch is in effect until 6 p.m. for southeast and coastal Louisiana and Mississippi. Steady rain has already started falling across the area. One to three inches are expected across the region with higher amounts in isolated areas.

A wind advisory is also in effect for coastal Louisiana and Mississippi until 9 p.m. Winds are expected to increase to 25 to 35 mph. Occasional gusts could reach more than 40 mph.